Healthy gums are essential for overall oral health, supporting teeth and preventing various issues. Less emphasized than teeth, gum care doesn’t need to be complicated. Incorporating a few straightforward steps into your daily routine can significantly benefit your gums.
At Chester Springs Dental, we’re here to help you maintain a healthy, confident smile for life. Our comprehensive general dentistry services include routine cleanings, exams, fillings, crowns, and gum care — all tailored to support your long-term oral health. Don’t have dental insurance? No worries — our Membership Savings Club offers an affordable option for patients without coverage. Most importantly, we’re a compassionate team that’s committed to making every visit comfortable, personalized, and focused on delivering exceptional care.
Having cavity-free teeth doesn’t mean you have healthy gums. Since it’s usually painless, you may not know if something is wrong with your gums. A few strategies can help you keep your whole mouth healthy.
When it comes to your mouth’s health, it’s not all about how straight your teeth are or how bright your smile is. You can’t forget about your gums!
Gum disease starts when plaque builds up under and along the gum line. Plaque is a sticky film-like substance that’s filled with bacteria. It can cause infections that hurt the gum and bone, leading to gum disease and tooth decay. Plaque also can cause gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease. Gingivitis causes your gums to become:
- inflamed
- tender
- red
- swollen
- prone to bleeding
Fortunately, since the bone and tissue holding the teeth in place aren’t impacted, this damage is reversible.
You can also develop periodontitis, an advanced form of gum disease. Periodontitis impacts the bones that hold your teeth in place. Left untreated, it can ruin the gums, bones, and tissues connected to your teeth.
The final stage of gum disease is advanced periodontitis. This is when the fibers and bone supporting your teeth are destroyed. It can impact your bite, and teeth may need to be removed.
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), signs that you might have gum disease include:
- consistently bad taste or breath
- separating or loose permanent teeth
- gums that easily bleed
- gums that are swollen, red, or tender
- gums that have pulled away from your teeth
Gum disease is preventable. Here are a few ways you can help keep your gums healthy.
1. Floss
Floss at least once a day. This helps remove the plaque and food that’s beyond your toothbrush’s reach, according to the ADA. It doesn’t matter when you floss. Do it at night, do it in the morning, or do it after lunch… just do it!
2. Get regular dental cleanings
Invest in a healthy smile and maintain strong, healthy gums. Schedule your appointment with Dr. Richard Gross and experience our VIP dental services today at 610-524-9530 or join our Instagram community here!
Reference: [https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/ways-to-keep-gums-healthy]
